Both The Narrows and Angels Landing offer distinct hiking experiences in Zion National Park. The Narrows is ideal for those seeking a unique water hike through a slot canyon with options for varying difficulty and length. Angels Landing is better suited for experienced hikers looking for a challenging climb with rewarding panoramic views. Consider your fitness level, fear of heights, and desired scenery when choosing between these two iconic trails.
| Attribute | The Narrows, Zion National Park | Angels Landing, Zion National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Trail Length | Bottom-up: From the Temple of Sinawava to Big Springs is 3.6 miles (5.8 km) one way, 7.2 miles round trip. Top-down: From Chamberlain's Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava is 16 miles (26 km). | 5.0-5.5 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | Bottom-up hike has a minimal elevation gain of 17m or 334 feet (102 m). Generally flat. | Approximately 1,488-1,600 feet. The summit is at 5,790 feet elevation. |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate (bottom-up), Strenuous (top-down) | Strenuous. Rated as a class 3 difficulty based on the Yosemite Decimal System. Not recommended for those with a fear of heights. |
| Permit Requirements | Bottom-up: Not required to hike from the Temple of Sinawava up to Big Spring. Top-down: Wilderness permit required for the 16-mile through-hike from Chamberlain's Ranch. | Required to hike any portion of Angels Landing from Scout Lookout to the summit. Permits are obtained through online lotteries. |
| Scenery Type | Slot canyon with narrow gorges and towering walls. The Virgin River runs through the canyon. | Panoramic views of Zion Canyon. The trail ascends a narrow spine of rock. |
| Crowd Levels | Can get very crowded, especially during the summer. Crowds tend to thin out further into the hike. | High, especially during peak season. The permit system aims to reduce crowding. |
| Water Availability | Water available almost every step of the Narrows. Not safe to drink from any streams in the park due to toxic cyanobacteria. Bring all the water you may need for your hike. | No water available along the trail. Fill up at The Grotto before starting. |
| Exposure to Sun/Shade | High canyon walls provide mostly shade. The top half of the Zion Narrows hike can be hot and sunny, especially in July and August. | The trail is mostly exposed to the sun, except for sections of Refrigerator Canyon. |
| Technical Sections | Bottom-up hike presents few technical difficulties. The terrain can be rocky and slippery. There are sections where you may need to wade or swim. | Chains are present to assist with steep sections and drop-offs. |
| Accessibility | First mile of the bottom-up hike is the paved, wheelchair-accessible Riverside Walk. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive requires a free shuttle during the shuttle season. | Shuttle required during peak season. The trailhead is at the Grotto shuttle stop (stop #6). |
| Best Time of Year to Hike | Summer and early fall are popular. Fall is another great time. Winter can be a good time, but specialized equipment is required. Spring is generally not the best time. | Spring (March to mid-May) and Fall (mid-September to November). Hiking is possible year-round if there is no ice or snow. |
| Average Hiking Time | Bottom-up: 1-8 hours. Top-down: 12-18 hours (with backpacking gear) or 10-13 hours (as a day hike). | 3-5 hours |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | Not available | Not available |